The Importance of Spaying / Neutering Your Pets

We’re sure you’ve heard the often-repeated phrase, “Have your pets spayed or neutered.” From Price is Right to PSAs to t-shirt slogans, it’s everywhere. However, statistics show that people still ignore this sound advice. Here at the shelter, we can’t stress enough the importance of spaying or neutering your pets. We take in animals every day that are the result of unexpected litters of puppies and kittens. Just a simple, inexpensive procedure to your pet would help curb this influx of pets and help everyone!

Pets are Homeless Everywhere

It’s not just our area; all over the country, there are homeless animals and shelters working to slow the unwanted reproduction. Did you know that in the US, there are 6-8 MILLION animals entering animal shelters every year? These are healthy, adoptable pets, but placing that many animals in homes is next to impossible. The only sure way to shrink this massive number is to spay/neuter your pets.

Healthier Pets

In 2013, USA Today reported that pets who live in the states with the highest rates of spaying/neutering also live the longest. According to the report, neutered make dogs live 18% longer than un-neutered male dogs and spayed female dogs live 23% longer than their unspayed counterparts.

These altered animals have reduced risks of certain types of cancers. They also do not have as much of an urge to roam as unaltered animals, reducing their exposure to fights, cars, and other mishaps.

That’s a Good Kitty/Puppy

There are several myths around spaying/neutering, including that it changes the animals fundamental personality. Dogs will still maintain their protective instinct. However, spaying/neutering your pets also helps curb bad behavior, such as spraying and marking.

Experts recommend having your pet altered early (by 4 months of age) to help curb these behaviors before they are even a problem. Neutering solves 90% of all marking issues, and can also reduce the urge to roam, minimize howling and so forth.

Saving Costs

Having a pet altered is an investment in their quality of life, as well as yours. There are programs available for low-cost and assisted spaying and neutering. Another consideration is the difference in care costs for altered vs unaltered pets. Caring for a pet with reproductive system cancer or pyometra can become very expensive, easily topping thousands of dollars. Compared to the costs of a spay/neuter procedure, the choice is easy.

Spaying and neutering your pets is critical to responsible pet ownership. We require it, and it just makes sense. If you have questions about where to take your pet for this procedure, the steps involved or anything else, please contact us. We’d be glad to help get you on the right track!